How to Get a Marriage License in North Carolina

An important step in making your marriage legal is obtaining a marriage license. Following are guidelines on how to obtain a marriage license if you plan to wed in North Carolina.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Divorce decree, annulment paper or death certificate, if applicable
• Marriage license application
• Valid identification
• Cash

1. Apply for the marriage license together in person at any North Carolina county clerk's office. Residency in North Carolina is not required.

2. Present proof of age and identity. A driver's license, military identification card or certified copies of birth certificates are acceptable forms of identification for this purpose.

3. Fill out the application and sign it in the presence of the county clerk. Applicants may also be asked to provide addresses and telephone numbers, marriage officiator information and father's and mother's full name and state of birth for both applicants.
   

4. Pay the license fee and head to the altar. There is no waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 days after issuance.

Tips & Warnings

• If either applicant has been married previously, bring the certified document that ended his or her last marriage, such as a divorce decree, annulment paper or death certificate.
• Blood tests are not required in North Carolina.
• Marriage license requirements often change. Verify all information with the local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel arrangements.